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Wellesley firefighters had a rough time rescuing a dog that fell through the ice into a bone-chilling Charles River Sunday, authorities said.

For their efforts, the Wellesley Fire Department will be given an award by PETA, the animal rights organization.

Firefighters had to fight through patches of ice near the border of Dover and Wellesley to rescue a golden retriever named Crosby, said Wellesley Fire Captain Jim Dennehy. The dog fell through a thin patch of ice during an afternoon walk, he said.

Rescuers donned ice suits and swam through the freezing waters to get close enough to Crosby, who was then grabbed by the collar, Dennehy said. A team on the shore then threw a rope to rescuers and pulled the humans and canine to safety, he said.

“The dog wanted to get out of the water pretty bad,” he said. “It was cold, so the dog was shivering pretty good.”

Dennehy said it was a good thing rescuers arrived when they did.

“There was a current, so the dog would have tired out after a certain amount of time,” he said.

Once ashore, firefighters wrapped Crosby in a blanket and warmed the dog in the back of a police cruiser before returning her to her owner, Dennehy said.

For saving Crosby’s life, the department will receive PETA's Compassionate Fire Department Award, according to the organization.

"The compassion and heroism shown by the Wellesley Fire Department is an inspiration," said PETA executive vice president Tracy Reiman in a statement. "Wellesley is very fortunate to have first responders who are ready to protect and serve both residents and their beloved animal companions."

The fire department will receive a framed certificate, a letter of appreciation, and a box of vegan chocolates from PETA.

PETA reminds all dog guardians to always keep their animals on a comfortable and secure harness when taking them for walks.